Failure to Protect Resident from Exploitation by Staff Member
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency occurred when a staff member, identified as a floor technician, exploited a resident by requesting money from her. The resident, who had diagnoses including Parkinson's disease, bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, and a history of physical and sexual abuse, reported the incident to facility staff and provided screenshots of text messages as evidence. The resident was cognitively intact at the time, as indicated by a BIMS score of 13 out of 15, and had a care plan that included approaches to support her emotional well-being and involvement in her care. The facility's policy prohibits exploitation, defined as taking advantage of a resident for personal gain through manipulation, intimidation, threats, or coercion. The facility's investigation confirmed that the staff member had requested money from the resident, substantiating the allegation of exploitation. It was also found that the staff member's personnel file lacked evidence of a criminal background check or reference checks prior to employment. The incident was reported to the state agency, and the staff member was suspended pending investigation. No additional residents were found to be affected by this staff member.